How To Sell Tickets To Your Show Online

Introduction.

Planning a show is exciting, but let’s be real: ticket sales are where the magic (and the money) happens.

Getting people to actually buy tickets for your show online is a challenge. It’s more than just putting up a “buy now” button and hoping for the best.

You’ve got to know your audience, choose the right platform, and think through the strategy that will get people clicking.

Online ticket sales aren’t just about convenience anymore; they’re essential. Since the rise of digital platforms, more people than ever buy tickets online, whether it’s through mobile apps, social media, or dedicated ticketing websites.

According to industry data, about 79% of all tickets are sold online, meaning a huge chunk of your potential audience expects to buy digitally. With so many options and methods out there, selling tickets online can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.

I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get those seats filled, whether it’s for a small comedy night or a concert.

Here’s a full guide on how to sell tickets to your show online, including the best platforms, tips for marketing, and even some pros and cons to help you make informed choices.

Why Sell Tickets Online?

Selling tickets online reaches more people, and it’s easier for your audience to access your event. People are more likely to buy when it’s as simple as a few clicks on their phone or computer.

Plus, with online ticket sales, you get real-time insights into who’s buying, when they’re buying, and where they’re coming from.

This information is powerful—it lets you adjust your marketing strategy, find out which channels work best, and understand what types of people are interested in your show.

Selling online also allows you to automate tasks like handling payments, sending out digital tickets, and even sending reminders or upsells to your audience.

This saves time, reduces the likelihood of errors, and makes the entire ticketing experience smoother for both you and your attendees.

How Do I Sell Tickets Online?

Let’s go through the main steps of selling tickets to your show online:

1. Choose a Ticketing Platform.

There are lots of ticketing platforms out there, like Eventbrite, Ticketmaster, and Brown Paper Tickets. Each platform has its pros and cons, so think about the one that best matches your show’s needs.

Do you want a platform that integrates with social media? Or one that helps you manage seating arrangements? Compare fees, features, and user experience to pick the best one.

2. Set Clear Ticket Pricing.

Pricing can make or break your sales. It’s essential to have a clear ticket pricing strategy—whether you offer early-bird discounts, group rates, or VIP options.

Competitive pricing helps attract a larger audience, and offering different options lets people choose how they want to experience your event.

3. Create a Compelling Event Page.

Your event page is often the first thing people see, so it should be attractive, informative, and easy to navigate.

Include key details like date, time, location, and a catchy description of what attendees can expect. Photos or short video clips from past events work well here too.

4. Leverage Social Media.

Social media is one of the most effective ways to promote your event. Create engaging content that teases the show, shares behind-the-scenes moments, and highlights your performers.

You can use Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to spread the word, and even consider paid ads if your budget allows. Be consistent with posting as the show date gets closer.

5. Send Reminders and Follow-Ups.

Not everyone buys tickets right away. Sometimes, people need a little reminder that they’re interested in going to your show.

Set up automated reminders for people who’ve visited your ticket page but haven’t purchased yet, and send a quick “last call” email a few days before the event.

Pros and Cons of Selling Tickets Online

Like any approach, selling tickets online comes with its upsides and downsides.

Pros:

• Wider Reach: You’re no longer limited to local buyers. Online sales make it possible to attract people from different areas.
• Instant Payment: Payments are processed immediately, and you get confirmation right away.
• Data Insights: Most platforms provide real-time data on sales trends, buyer demographics, and more.
• Convenience for Buyers: Buyers can purchase tickets 24/7 from anywhere.

Cons:

• Platform Fees: Most ticketing platforms charge a fee per sale. Be sure to account for this in your pricing.
• Technical Issues: Glitches or downtime can hurt sales, especially if they happen close to the event.
• Competition: With so many events online, standing out can be challenging, so marketing and promotion are essential.

FAQs

1. What’s the best ticketing platform for beginners?

Eventbrite is a popular choice for beginners due to its user-friendly interface, extensive integrations, and promotional tools. It’s simple enough for small events but powerful enough for larger ones.

2. How much should I charge for tickets?

This depends on your target audience and the type of show you’re putting on. Research similar events in your area and see what they charge. Don’t be afraid to offer tiered pricing for different experiences, like VIP or backstage passes.

3. How can I increase my ticket sales?

Promote your show early and often, especially on social media. Offer early-bird discounts, partner with influencers, and run online contests. Building excitement through regular updates can help boost sales.

4. Do I need to offer refunds?

Most ticketing platforms allow you to set a refund policy. Whether or not to offer refunds is up to you, but being flexible (even with partial refunds) can make people more willing to buy tickets.

5. Can I sell tickets through my website?

Absolutely. Many ticketing platforms let you embed a ticket widget directly on your website, so buyers can complete their purchase without leaving your page.

Tips for Successful Online Ticket Sales

• Build a Mailing List: Email marketing can be highly effective, especially for local events. Use it to reach people who have attended similar shows in the past.
• Use FOMO (Fear of Missing Out): Create urgency by letting people know that tickets are limited or selling fast.
• Collaborate with Local Influencers: If you’re targeting a specific area, work with local influencers who can promote your event to their followers.
• Offer Group Discounts: A discount for group purchases can encourage friends and families to attend together.
• Optimize for Mobile: Many people buy tickets through their phones. Make sure your event page and ticketing process are mobile-friendly.

Conclusion

Selling tickets to your show online opens up a world of possibilities. It lets you reach a larger audience, simplify payments, and get valuable insights into your ticket sales.

With the right strategies in place, you’ll be well on your way to a packed house.

Remember to choose the right platform, set clear pricing, and stay consistent with your promotions.

So, are you ready to start selling tickets online for your next big event? What strategies do you think will work best for your show?